The US Department of Defense has awarded Firehawk Aerospace a $24 million contract aimed at expanding domestic production of propellant for the M1128 155mm base-bleed artillery projectile.Under the 22-month agreement, Firehawk is expected to raise annual propellant production capacity to approximately 740,000 pounds. Once its Oklahoma facility reaches full operational capability, production could increase to about 3.1 million pounds annually.Artillery propellant is a rapidly burning chemical material that produces high-pressure gas inside a weapon system, providing the force required to launch a projectile at high speed.The M1128 uses base-bleed technology. A small gas-generating unit positioned at the rear of the projectile produces gas after launch, reducing aerodynamic drag behind the projectile and allowing it to travel farther.The M1128 is a 155mm extended-range high-explosive projectile developed by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems. It is designed for use with 155mm artillery systems such as the M777A2 and M109A7.US Industrial Base InvestmentThe contract was issued through the Pentagon’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program. The initiative is designed to address vulnerabilities in defense supply chains and expand the capacity of critical US manufacturing sectors.The program supports six broad areas: critical materials, workforce development, kinetic weapons, microelectronics, castings and forgings, and batteries.
